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Donald Trump's cabinet continued to take shape last night as his pick to be America's top diplomat overcame a significant hurdle in the confirmation process and his choice to lead the CIA was finally sworn in.

Former Exxon Mobil Corp Chairman Rex Tillerson, the president's nominee for Secretary of State, won approval from the Republican-led Foreign Relations Committee after Republican Senator Marco Rubio decided to give his support - despite harbouring reservations. The move all but assures the full Senate will confirm Mr Tillerson.

Members of the panel voted along party lines, 11-10, to back Mr Tillerson following a contentious confirmation hearing nearly two weeks ago that stoked concerns...